Discover the Best of the Alpilles

Alpilles

1) A Journey through the Villages and Markets of Provence

From the very moment I arrived, I was captivated by the timeless charm of the villages nestled in the Alpilles. Their winding, cobbled streets, warm ambiance, and tree-lined squares shaded by ancient plane trees beckon you to wander and lose yourself. In Fontvieille, I stumbled upon a market brimming with the sweet aroma of olives and Provencal herbs, before letting the narrow alleys and the old mills guide me into a world frozen in time. As for Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, this lively village stole my heart with its colorful market, where I savored the flavors of local delicacies, carried away by the convivial spirit of the place.

2) Between Vineyards and Olive Groves: Estates You Must Visit

No stay in the Alpilles is complete without a visit to its olive oil and wine estates. I fell deeply in love with Mas de la Dame, where I tasted exquisite wines and a stunningly fragrant olive oil. The Château d’Estoublon, meanwhile, enchanted me with its majestic setting and the perfection of its products. A stop here is an absolute must.

3) A Dive into History and Culture

History is woven into the very fabric of the Alpilles. I was in awe of the Château des Baux-de-Provence, perched high on its rocky peak, offering a panoramic view that took my breath away. Nearby, the Carrières de Lumières offered a mesmerizing immersive experience, where art leapt from the stone walls and enveloped me in its beauty.

For a touch of modernity, I wandered through LUMA Arles, a captivating museum of contemporary art designed by Frank Gehry. And, of course, no visit would be complete without stepping into the ancient Arles amphitheater, where the echoes of Roman spectacles still linger in the air, a testament to the vibrant history that once thrived there.

4) Nature Awaits: Cycling, Horseback Riding, and the Camargue

A true lover of nature, I reveled in the chance to explore the Alpilles by bike, gliding along trails lined with olive trees and vineyards. I also indulged in a horseback ride, an unforgettable adventure through untamed landscapes where time seemed to stand still.

Just 45 minutes from Bastide Mireio, I ventured to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, where endless beaches meet age-old traditions. Here, I discovered a different side of Provence, where the sea and the spirit of the Camargue intertwine in perfect harmony.

5) Gastronomy: A Feast for the Senses

Provence is not only a land of stunning landscapes, but also of unforgettable flavors. Here are some of the dining experiences that marked my journey:

• Le Relais du Castelet: A magical setting and cuisine that speaks of authenticity.

• Édu in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence: A celebration of the finest local produce in every dish.

• La Table d’Estoublon: A gastronomic journey within the estate, a true feast for the senses.

• Inari in Arles: A perfect fusion of Asian flavors and the essence of Provence.

• La Chassagnette in the Camargue: A Michelin-starred gem, where the region's treasures are elevated to their fullest potential.

What left the deepest mark on me in the Alpilles was the delicate balance between ancient heritage and vibrant modernity. Each village, every landscape, every taste tells a story that spans the centuries, while ever looking toward the future. If you seek a place where history, nature, and gastronomy converge in perfect harmony, then Bastide Mireio and the Alpilles are a dream waiting to be lived.